The city of Vancouver is developing four small-business relief programs to create jobs and economic opportunity, especially in low-income neighborhoods.

City staff presented the proposals — which include a revolving loan program and a product-to-market grant — to the Vancouver City Council on Monday.

The programs would tap $1.5 million the city received through the federal American Rescue Plan pandemic relief for the Fourth Plain for All program, as well as $250,000 already budgeted by the city.

The revolving loan program is aimed at small businesses that are unable to obtain traditional loans.

According to city staff, 45 percent of businesses in Vancouver are less than 2 years old, which makes it difficult for them to qualify for a loan through a traditional bank or credit union that

See Full Page